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Mighty Muggs

2009-07-24T19:08:27Z

TheGreatMrChibi:

[[Image:MightyMuggs_OptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px]]
'''Mighty Muggs''' is a collectible toyline released by [[Hasbro]] in 2008. It consists of cute, [[super deformed]] characters, all made using the same mold (with the occasional [[retool]]). The line includes characters from various franchises, including ''[[G.I. Joe]]'', ''[[Star Wars]]'', and [[Marvel Comics]]. In 2009, ''Transformers'' got in on the action with its most popular [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] characters, but that section of the line was apparently canceled before its third wave could be released. However, new figures were displayed at the 2009 San Diego Comic Con, with display information that the canceled 3rd Wave would be released, along with two new figures, in the fall of that year.
{{bigquote|awesomeness is the right of all sentient beings|Toy packaging blurb.}}

==Toys==
'''Wave 1'''
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]]
*[[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]]
*[[Soundwave (G1)/toys|Soundwave]]
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]]

'''Wave 2'''
*[[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]]
*[[Starscream (G1) toys|Starscream]]

'''Wave 3'''
*[[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]
*[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)/toys|Optimus Prime (Movie)]]
*[[Bumblebee (Movie)/toys|Bumblebee (Movie)]]

'''Others'''
*Metallic Optimus Prime (San Diego Comic-Con 2009 [[exclusive]])
*[[Derrick J. Wyatt]] ([[BotCon 2009]] exclusive)

==External links==
*[http://www.hasbro.com/mightymuggs/ Mighty Muggs at Hasbro.com]

[[Category:Toys]]

NEST

2009-07-11T01:34:39Z

TheGreatMrChibi: Just a little quip.

:''NEST is a military organization in the [[Live-action film series|live-action film series]] [[Continuity family|continuity family]].''

[[Image:NEST insignia.png|right|300px|Logo design by Georgia O'Keefe]]

Following the disbanding of [[Sector Seven]], '''NEST''' was set up under [[William Lennox]] to create a combined [[United States military|United States Military]]/[[Autobot]] defense force against [[Decepticon|Decepticons]]. Though originally an [[United States of America|American]]-Autobot military alliance, it soon expanded to include armed forces from the [[United Kingdom]] and other nations.

==Fiction==
===IDW ''Transformers'' movie comics===
[[Image:Alliance3_NEST_rollout.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Hey, that's my line!]]

Approximately one month after the events in [[Mission City]], Sector Seven inadvertently reactivated the [[Decepticon]] [[Wreckage (Movie)|Wreckage]] and simultaneously attracted the attention of [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]], and the subsequent battle leveled Sector Seven's [[Nevada]] bunker, costing dozens of lives. [[John Keller|Secretary of Defense Keller]] immediately terminated the clandestine group's operations upon learning of the incident.

In the aftermath, Captain Lennox tried to convince his dubious and hostile superiors at the [[Pentagon]] that the Autobots were indeed trustworthy and would be a valuable asset. His superiors impressed upon him that in order for the military to provide full disclosure, the Autobots must cooperate fully, and that the unit was Lennox's responsibility now. After the burial-at-sea of [[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]], [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] and Lennox agreed that for the protection of their mutual homeworld, they must trust each other and work together as a single team. Sometime later, the newly formed NEST command commenced training at the military base on [[Diego Garcia]]. {{storylink|Alliance issue 3|Alliance #3}}

NEST had a baptism of fire against the [[Decepticon]] scouts [[Swindle (Movie)|Swindle]] and [[Jolt (Movie)|Dead End]] in [[San Francisco]]: the mission was successful although Lennox was criticized for allowing the Autobots to transform on the Golden Gate Bridge. NEST expanded to a multinational force and began taking on Decepticon agents across [[Earth]]: [[Fracture]] and [[Overcast (Movie)|Overcast]] were destroyed in Europe, while [[Dropkick]] and [[Incinerator (Movie)|Incinerator]] were defeated in [[Florida]]. NEST's victories were tempered with the ultimate sacrifice, such as when [[Salani]] died battling [[Jetstorm (Movie)|Jetstorm]]. When [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]] redeployed back to the 'States as [[Sam Witwicky]]'s guardian, NEST received a much-needed boost in Transformers ranks when [[Sideswipe (ROTF)|Sideswipe]], [[Arcee (Movie)|Arcee]], [[Skids (ROTF)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]] came to Earth. This joy was short-lived, however: the Decepticon [[Demolishor (ROTF)|Demolishor]] had been sighted in [[Shanghai]], [[China]]. {{storylink|Alliance issue 4|Alliance #4}}
{{-}}

===''The Veiled Threat'' prequel novel===
{{Note|The events of ''The Veiled Threat'' take place during [[IDW Publishing]]'s ''[[Alliance (comic)|Alliance]]'' comic. Yes, Swindle and Deadend are alive.}}
As [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] was spotted in [[Zambia]], gaining control over local rebel groups by using his internal synthesizers to create [[gold]] coins, NEST was deployed to the Zambezi River to battle [[Dropkick]], [[Macerator]], and [[Payload (Movie)|Payload]]. [[Beachbreak]] was killed by Starscream while helping Optimus Prime not fall to his death at Victoria Falls. Starscream's Decepticons attempted to destroy a series of dams, but Prime killed Macerator, while Payload was drowned when the humans entered the dam and opened the flood gates.

Epps, Russian scientist [[Petr Andronov]], [[Longarm (Movie)|Longarm]] and [[Knock Out (ROTF)|Knockout]] went to [[Peru]], while Lennox, [[Kaminari Ishihara]], Prime, Ironhide, and [[Salvage (Movie)|Salvage]] arrived in the Western [[Australia]]n Outback. Epps' team fought off [[Ruination (ROTF)|Ruination]] and [[Blademaster]], while Lennox's group encountered [[Kickback (ROTF)|Kickback]], [[Tread]] and [[Trample]]. Before dying, Kickback revealed he was part of a Decepticon faction not under Starscream's command, which were trying to gather enough energy to revive Megatron.

At Diego Garcia, [[crab spy|a small crab]] Decepticon infiltrated the base and hacked into the NEST computers before sneaking back into the sea. Despite the break-in, the NEST team continues their usual business, hunting [[Swindle (Movie)|Swindle]] and [[Jolt (Movie)|Deadend]] in [[Italy|Rome]]. Unexpectedly, Starscream challenged Prime to single combat inside the Coliseum. There, Prime fell through a trap door to a subway tunnel extension and into a strong set of restraints arranged by Italian criminal [[Bruno Carrera]] - who was promised rule of Europe once Starscream conquered Earth - where he was attacked by [[Barricade (Movie)|Barricade]]. The humans rescued Prime though, and Barricade and Starscream fled. {{storylink|The Veiled Threat}}

===''Revenge of the Fallen'' movie===
{{spoilers}}
NEST arrived in Shanghai, where Sideswipe took out [[Sideways (ROTF)|Sideways]] and Optimus defeated Demolishor. Returning to their US base, Lennox and Optimus met [[Theodore Galloway]], who was appointed their new Director by the [[President of the United States]], and held a video conference with General [[Morshower]]. Galloway noted President [[Barack Obama|Obama]]'s horror at the destruction during the Shanghai battle, and voiced his opinion that the Decepticons only remained because the Autobots did. Optimus said he respected the humans if they wished them to leave, but also requested Galloway answer what if they left, and the Decepticons kept coming.

Little did they know, [[Soundwave (ROTF)|Soundwave]] was listening in on their conversation, overhearing details such as [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]]'s location in the [[Laurentian Abyss]], and the last [[All Spark]] fragment in storage at Diego Garcia. [[Ravage (ROTF)|Ravage]] was deployed to steal the fragment, which [[Scalpel]] used to revive their leader. The reborn Megatron went after [[Sam Witwicky]], and Optimus died protecting him. Following Optimus' death, the Decepticons arrived in greater numbers during bolder attacks under the leadership of Megatron's master, [[The Fallen]], and Galloway ordered the termination of NEST and that the Autobots retreat to Diego Garcia.

But [[Seymour Simmons]] contacted Lennox, revealing he had travelled to [[Egypt]] with Sam to unravel the Decepticons' plot. During their flight to Diego Garcia, Lennox had the pilots fake landing trouble so Galloway would parachute off the plane, so they could land outside the [[pyramid]]s instead. Soundwave blocked off NEST's radio signals to the [[United States military]], but Simmons was able to use a radio from a [[Jordan]]ian helicopter to request backup from the nearby [[United States Navy]]. NEST held off the Decepticons until Sam arrived with the [[Matrix of Leadership]], which he used to resurrect Optimus, and the Autobot leader subsequently defeated The Fallen. {{storylink|Revenge of the Fallen (film)}}
{{-}}

==Known members==
===Humans===
*Technical/Master Sergeant [[Robert Epps]] ([[United States Air Force]])
*Captain/Major [[William Lennox]] ([[United States Army|United States Army Rangers]])
*[[Burke]]
*[[Salani]]
*[[Kaminari Ishihara]] — Cyberneticist
*[[Petr Andronov]] — "AI genius"
*[[General Marks]]
*[[Graham]]
*All those who complete the NEST missions {{storylink|LGNEST.com}}

===Autobots===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]
*[[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]]
*[[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]]
*[[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]]
*[[Longarm (Movie)|Longarm]]
*[[Salvage (Movie)|Salvage]]
*[[Beachbreak]]
*[[Knock Out (ROTF)|Knock Out]]
*[[Sideswipe (ROTF)|Sideswipe]]
*[[Mudflap (ROTF) |Mudflap]]
*[[Skids (ROTF) |Skids]]
*[[Arcee (Movie)|Arcee]]
*[[Chromia (ROTF)|Chromia]]
*[[Jolt (ROTF) |Jolt]]
*[[Breakaway (ROTF)|Breakaway]]
*[[Dune Runner (ROTF)|Dune Runner]]

==Trivia==
*What NEST stands for is not mentioned on screen. Depending on who you ask, it means:
**'''Networked Elements: Supporters and Transformers''' ''{{storylink|The Veiled Threat}}''
**'''Nonbiological Extraterrestrial Species Treaty''' ''{{storylink|The Last Prime}}''
**'''Nonbiological Extraterrestrial Species Team''' [http://www.lgnest.com/ LG promotional tie-in website]

* NEST troopers appeared on Cover B of the ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' prequel comic "[[Alliance issue 2|Alliance #2]]" , but were nowhere to be seen in the story inside. This is because most of the covers illustrated by ''Revenge'' concept artist [[Josh Nizzi]] were meant to allude to scenes or situations in the actual ''Revenge of the Fallen'' movie itself.

* The native population of [[Diego Garcia]] were [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depopulation_of_Diego_Garcia ''expelled''] from the island to make way for the joint [[United Kingdom]]/United States military bases. The Autobots are led by Optimus Prime, who believes freedom is the right of all sentient beings. Err...

* There is a real US Government agency known as NEST. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_Emergency_Support_Team The Nuclear Emergency Support Team]. Of course, it could just be a cover for joint operations with alien robots...

* The ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' toyline's [[pricepoint|Voyager class]] Ironhide toy features a different NEST symbol on his alt-mode doors; a white Autobot symbol wearing a red beret set within a United Nations-styled logo, with 'special program' written underneath. Meanwhile, Scout class [[Dune Runner (ROTF)|Dune Runner]] features a NEST symbol with the Autobot sigil and the SAS's downward pointing broadsword replacing the cow's skull.

==Footnotes==
<references/>

{{DEFAULTSORT:Nest}}
[[Category:Human organizations]]
[[Category:NEST| ]]
[[Category:Revenge of the Fallen]]

Seeker (body-type)

2009-07-09T06:01:07Z

TheGreatMrChibi:

{{factions|decepticon}}
{{featured}}
{{disambig3|Seeker}}

[[Image:Seekers.png|right|300px|thumb|Well, they keep the toy-repainting fans off the streets, at least. (Generic Seekers from, clockwise: 1) MtMtE Part 3, 2) sticker sheet, 3-6) Five Faces of Darkness)]]

The term '''Seeker''' refers to [[Decepticon]] jet troopers who all share the same [[body-type]]. That is, the Decepticons in [[Generation 1]] that looked like [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], but in different colors or with minor variations in wing and head shapes, and also the Decepticons in later franchises such as ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'' where similar "families" of jets appear.

The word "Seeker" hovered a long time in a strange gray area between official and fan-coined terms. It seems to have originated in ''extremely'' obscure official or semi-official writing, but somehow became widely used among fans. In 2002, the term appeared in dialog from the first issue of ''[[The War Within]]'' from [[Dreamwave Productions]], [[Canonizing|making it truly official]] after years of controversy. It has subsequently appeared in many other places such as on toy packaging, books, and in other stories.

:''Japanese name:'' '''Jetron'''

==Generation 1 Seekers==
===Originals===
[[Image:MainSeekers.gif|300px|thumb|right|The original Seekers]]
In Generation 1, there were six Seekers originally given names and characterization: [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]], [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. The first three, the season one Seekers, had animation designs done primarily by [[Shōhei Kohara]].
{{-}}

===Coneheads===
[[Image:ConeheadsGenerations1.jpg|200px|thumb|right|The Coneheads.]]
The last three Generation 1 Seekers are usually designated as "[[Conehead]]" Seekers by fans for their distinctive transformation that leaves the jet nosecone pointing up. The animation models for the Conehead Seekers were designed by [[Floro Dery]],
{{-}}

===Skyraiders===
[[Image:WingsofHonor-Skyraiders.jpg|right|thumb|250px|New guys, same ol' body-type.]]
The term "Skyraiders," (see [[#Alternate terms|alternate terms]]) was assigned to the prototypical Starscream-like air warriors that [[Skyquake (G1)|Skyquake]] developed at the very beginning of the war. The ranks of the Skyraiders did not seem to include any of the usual Seekers, but instead were comprised of other flying Decepticon characters. In addition to Skyquake himself, the Skyraiders were [[Leozack]], [[Hellbat]], [[Hooligan (G2)|Hooligan]], and [[Gaihawk]].
{{-}}

===And all the rest===
[[Image:MTMTEGenerics-OilField.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Aw, not "[[When Continents Collide]]" again...]]
In the Generation 1 cartoon there were large numbers of [[generic]], unnamed Seekers in addition to the named characters. They came in a wide variety of colors, from extra duplicates of Starscream or one of the other named guys, to original and distinct looks all their own. They seem to have formed the bulk of the Decepticon forces on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], as well as among [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s initial troops on [[Earth]]. They gradually became less common, perhaps as a result of casualties... or the cartoon's production team becoming more careful, or more-likely having more "actual" Decepticons to work with as the toy line expanded. (Extra [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] units and alternate color cassettes were also used along with these Seekers, early on, to fill out the comparatively thin Decepticon ranks.)

These unsung Seekers would be recognized years later in ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' toy form as the [[Air Warrior]]s (all using the common lavender/white color scheme). Soon afterward, the [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] ''Generation One'' comic series introduced an army of similarly-colored Seeker drones.

[[Image:AirWarriors MTMtE.jpg|right|200px|thumb|You talking to me? Or him? Or the other one?]]

Around the same time, another background Seeker was also given a new life through toys and Dreamwave comics: [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]]. This yellow-orange Seeker was a nameless background character in the first episode of the ''Transformers'' cartoon, until [[e-Hobby]] turned him into an [[exclusive]] toy (available with an [[Autobot]] also based on a [[Hauler|first-episode cameo]]). Now [[Hasbro]] [[Sunstorm (disambiguation)|can't get enough of him]]. Another generic Seeker was given attention: [[Acid Storm]]. Like Sunstorm before him, he was based on one of the background Seekers from the original cartoon, in this case the episode "Divide and Conquer" (see below).
{{-}}
Unnamed Seekers with their own distinct color schemes appear in the following episodes as noted below:

[[Image:Sunstorm Cartoon.jpg|250px|thumb|One for all, and all for one. Sunstorm and co. attack.]]
* "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]"
:In the "return to [[Iacon]]" scene on Cybertron, five to seven Seekers appear (wide shots depict a group of five, but the close-ups give us seven distinct color schemes.) The first three are (as far as colors are concerned) Skywarp, Starscream (with a deeper voice), and Thundercracker. In a following shot, we see a lavender Seeker with a flamethrower pack, a medium-blue Seeker with white trim, holding his arm gun like a rifle, a yellow/orange Seeker who would become Sunstorm... and lurking in the back, a very dark-blue Seeker with white trim barely visible, but there if you look.

{{-}}
[[Image:MmteSeekers2.gif|250px|thumb|These Seekers make a lovely swatch!]]
* "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]" and "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3|Part 3]]"
:The mother lode of unnamed Seekers. Especially if you like variations of blue and lavender. Crowds of them appear at the start of the final battle. At least six different Seekers of various shades and decos of blue and at least or four of various shades and decos of lavender (two with black tail fins in jet mode, two with white). Also, a blue variant (seen in the picture above) missing his wings and shoulder vents appears in "Part 3". (The infamous "Lady in Purple" a piece of well known [[fanon]], for possibly being female due to weak line strength in the art also appears here)

{{-}}
[[Image:DivideandCon.gif|300px|thumb|Divide and Conquer Seekers]]
* "[[Divide and Conquer]]"
: Avert your eyes! One deep blue, one eye-burning bright green, and one garishly bright yellow. This trio is often referred to by fans as "the [[Rainmakers]]" because they started an [[acid rain]] shower to irritate a group of [[Autobot|Autobots]]. The green jet in this grouping was made into the ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' [[Acid Storm]] character, whose name was initially supposed to be "Rainmaker," then "Acid Rain."

{{-}}
[[Image:UltimateDoom.gif|300px|thumb|Ultimate Doom Seekers]]
* "[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3]]"
: Two blue variants and one really nice looking pine-green Seeker appear as part of Shockwave's forces trying to prevent the rescue of [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]] on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]].

{{-}}
* "[[Five Faces of Darkness]]"
: One all-gray Seeker, one with [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]]'s coloration, and one with [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]'s. There's also an interesting Conehead variant. (All of which appear in the main image above.)

{{-}}
[[Image:NotDirge.gif|200px|thumb|Dark Awakening Seeker]]
* "[[The Transformers: The Movie]]" & "[[Dark Awakening]]"
: One season 1-style [[:Image:DirgeseekerTFMovie.jpg|Seeker]] with Dirge's colors appears in jet mode in the attack on Autobot City in the movie, and next to the actual Dirge in the episode.

{{-}}
* Puffy stickers
: A sheet of Transformer puffy stickers featured a rare generic with a Starscream-based color scheme. He is pictured above as well.

{{-}}
[[Image:Returntocybertron-seeker.jpg|200px|thumb|Return to Cybertron Seeker.]]
* "[[Return to Cybertron]]"
: This relatively obscure [[Sticker Adventures]] tale gives us a brief glimpse of a Seeker with a Thundercracker/Skywarp mix; blue body, purple tailfins and wing stripes. You can't tell much more about him, given that he is A: partially obscured and B: exploding.

==UK Generation 2 comic==
An unnamed seeker with a light blue body with white face, light red helmet and thighs, and yellow cockpit cover was hanging around when Megatron boarded the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]. {{storylink|War Without End (issue)|War Without End}}

==Unicron Trilogy Seekers==
According to one minor source in ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'', when any Transformer converts to a jet, he is called a "seeker"<ref>''[[Transformers Armada: The Awakening]]'' DK Readers book.</ref>. But the closest specific characters to the Generation 1 Seekers are this universe's own [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]]/[[Thundercracker (Armada)|Thundercracker]]/[[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]] trio. All three even used the same toy mold in their first release, although Skywarp was heavily [[Retool|retooled]] from the others (including getting an entirely new-mold [[Mini-Con]] partner). While new Decepticon-allied jet characters named [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]] and [[Ramjet (Armada)|Ramjet]] were released in ''Armada'', they each had their own unique molds. However, whereas Ramjet was simply the Mini-Con partner of [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]], Thrust was a [[bulk]] who even had a VTOL engine in jet mode, a conehead and vertically-oriented wings in robot mode. Although Thrust's original toy was green, redecos looked a bit more like his G1 incarnation.

Though only Starscream appeared in the follow-up franchise, ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'', several Seekers appeared in the final portion of the Unicron Trilogy, ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]''. Starscream was back in a form heavily inspired by ''[[The War Within]]'' Starscream design (itself based on the "tetrajet" (see below)), while Thundercracker received a completely different body. A Skywarp was also released as a redeco of Thundercracker.

Further, the ''[[Legends Class|Legends of Cybertron]]'' Starscream toy, a tiny, simplified version of his main toy, was redecoed three more times: Skywarp as a giveaway at [[ComicCon 2005]], [[Ramjet (Universe)|Ramjet]] as a giveaway at [[BotCon 2005]], and [[Sunstorm (LOC)|Sunstorm]] as part of the last wave of the LOC line at retail.

==Live-action movie franchise Seekers==

In the letters page for [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|Titan's tie-in comic]], the movie versions of [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]], [[Thundercracker (Movie)|Thundercracker]], and [[Ramjet (Movie)|Ramjet]] were first referred to as Seekers—by Starscream himself, no less. [[Dreadwing (Movie)|Dreadwing]] was noticeably absent from Starscream's list, despite also being a jet and Thundercracker also being the name/body for a line of drones. This left it unclear what a Seeker ''is''. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 9|#9's Star Screams}}

The term was used twice in IDW movie comics, meaning different things—[[Seeker (Movie)|Starscream's crack unit]], and [[Seeker (ROTF)|ancient spacefaring Transformers]].

In the [[Revenge of the Fallen (film)|movie sequel]], Jetfire describes himself as a Seeker. One of the early categories of Transformers, they were created to seek out stars which could be harvested for energon. {{storylink|Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen}}

{{--}}

==Shattered Glass==
The term is taken to refer to [[Seeker (Shattered Glass)|a group of evil Autobots with car alternate modes who share the same color of black]].

==Alternate terms==
The most obvious alternate name for these Transformers—and the one generally used by pack-in [[cross-sell]] catalogs—is '''[[Decepticon Planes]]'''. While usually clear enough from context, this term has the weakness that there are many Decepticon planes who are not "Seekers". Also, the term is rarely, if ever, used outside of toy-specific contexts.

[[Image:Tetrajet seekers.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Did you ever wonder why we had to run for shelter...]]
The same Transformers are also sometimes referred to as '''tetrajets''', which makes reference to their Cybertronian forms as seen in the cartoon episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]" and a handful of other episodes set on Cybertron. In these forms, their vehicular modes are shaped somewhat like [[wikipedia:tetrahedron|tetrahedra]], or "triangular pyramids" (that is, a pyramid with a triangular base).

For a time, the term '''Skyraider''' saw increasing popularity. This term originated from European ''[[Generation 2 (franchise)|Generation 2]]'' marketing. When Starscream and Ramjet were released in this line, their packaging referred to them as Skyraiders. The UK ''Generation 2'' comic also featured some character profiles (much like the old [[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|''Transformers Universe'']] comics), and those profiles for Starscream and Ramjet used the word as well. It is a relatively small leap to extend usage to all similarly-built Decepticons. The push to use "Skyraider" was largely founded on the idea of using an official term instead of one that was, seemingly, coined and used only by fans. When [[Simon Furman]] made use of "Seeker" in ''The War Within'', however, this primary motivation was lost. "Skyraider" was used once again to describe the Starscream-like jet warriors in the [[BotCon 2009]] set "[[Wings of Honor]]," and [[Skyquake (G1)|Skyquake]] was indicated as the body-type's developer.

The first UK cross-sell catalog referred to the group as '''strike planes'''.<ref>[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-image/toysheets/g1/uksheet01/1.jpg/image.html Catalogue image] at Transformers @ The Moon</ref>

In Japan, they received the subgroup designation of '''Jetrons'''.

==Origin of term "Seeker"==
Although the most well-known name for these Decepticons, the wide use of the term "Seeker" is still somewhat mysterious.

[[Image:Seekers ad text.jpg|left|197px|thumb|From the 1984 J.C. Penney wishbook. [[:Image:Seekers ad.jpg|See the full page here.]]]]
The only known, documented use of the term is from the 1984 J.C. Penney holiday catalog (sometimes called a "wishbook"). On the page which shows the Christmas season's available Transformers, the following entry is found: ''"Decepticon Silver Plane. Airplane with sensational F-15 styling scours the countryside searching for Autobots. When they're found, the Seekers set out to destroy them. Transforms to an exciting robot with hi-tech weapons and Decepticon logo."'' A photo of Starscream and Thundercracker is displayed.

Also on the same page in an ad for [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]], he's said to send out messages to the Seekers and other Decepticons.

It has been rumored, but not demonstrated, that the term "Seeker" was used in some other early promotional materials. If so, then the term must have been handed down by [[Hasbro]] at some point. It hardly seems possible that the term could have been invented by a lowly copywriter at J.C. Penney who also just happened to decide to capitalize it. Still, though, if this catalog is the only primary source in which the term appears, it seems strange that it could have inspired the entire fandom to use the term. "Seeker" was in wide use among internet Transfans even in the early 1990s, when the fandom was just getting off its feet. Did somebody in the days of the Transformers email list have a memory of the word from when they saw this catalog at age 10 and start the trend? It is probably impossible to know at this point.

It is sometimes erroneously claimed that "Seeker" is derived from a line of dialog in the first episode of the G1 cartoon, in which these jets are referred to as "hunter-seekers". This line does not exist.

The term "[[Hunter-Seeker Skyship|hunter-seekers]]" is used in issue 17 of the US comic, "[[The Smelting Pool!]]". However, the Decepticons it is applied to are shown only in their flight modes, which look nothing like the "Seekers" that we are familiar with. In fact, the Conehead Seekers make their first appearance in this same issue, and their Cybertronian flight modes appear very similar to their [[Earth]] jet forms (if not completely identical), and completely ''different'' from the craft which are referred to as hunter-seekers. The only real connection between the hunter-seekers we were shown and the "Seekers" is that there's more than one of them and they fly.

==Toys==
{{note|Because of the bodytype-sharing nature of the Seekers, this section includes only molds that have been decorated as two or more Seeker characters, omitting a large number of molds unique to a single character.}}
===Generation 1===
[[Image:Redeco.jpg|right|250px|thumb|The original Seekers.]]
* '''[[Decepticon Planes]]''' (1984)
{{collist|3|
:* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
}}

* '''Decepticon Planes''' (1985)
{{collist|3|
:* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]
}}

:The original Seeker mold was the [[Popular Earth vehicle alternate modes#F-15 Eagle|F-15]] ''[[Diaclone]]'' design, noted for its detailed jet mode, extremely limited robot-mode articulation, and the need to remove/add many parts during transformation.

:The mold was initially decorated as Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker. In 1985, Ramjet, Dirge and Thrust were created out of this mold, each with unique new wing toolings and color schemes. Redecorated [[retool]]s of the mold also appeared in ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' as Starscream and Ramjet, featuring new accessory [[soundbox]]es.

:This mold subsequently has been extensively reissued and redecorated; see [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream (G1) toys]] for a ridiculously long list of examples. The reissues have included the original six characters as well as the retro-Generation-1 character [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]].

* '''[[Action Master]]s''' (1990)

:This non-transforming action figure mold was sold as Starscream, and later redecorated as Thundercracker for the European market.

===''Machine Wars''===
[[Image:MWSkywarp.jpg|right|200px|thumb|''Machine Wars'' Skywarp]]
* '''Basic''' (1997)

:A small [[Flipchanger|flipchanger]] mold, originally intended for ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'', was issued as Thundercracker and Skywarp.

===''Armada''===
* '''Max-Con''' (2002)

:An all-new mold sold at the $20 price point was originally issued as ''Armada'' [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]], redecorated as ''Armada'' [[Thundercracker (Armada)|Thundercracker]], and retooled as ''Armada'' [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]]. The retooled version was later issued as the new character [[Ramjet (Universe)|Ramjet]] in the first ''Universe'' toy line.

===''Smallest Transforming Transformers''===
[[Image:STFStarscream toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|''Smallest Transforming Transformers'' Starscream]]
:The ''Smallest'' line, issued in Japan in 2003, featured a reduced-scale version of the original Generation 1 Seeker mold.

:It was issued as Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker, and retooled as Thrust.

===''Robot Masters''===
:A new Seeker mold was created for Japan's ''[[Robot Masters]]'' subline. It is based on the original toy, but redesigned at a smaller size and with enhanced articulation.

:It was issued as Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker.

===''Titanium''===
[[Image:TitaniumHeroesWWThundercracker.jpg|right|200px|thumb|''Titanium'' Thundercracker]]
:A new Seeker mold created for the ''[[Titanium Series]]'' subline features a Cybertronian-based alternate mode, derived from the characters' appearance in ''[[The War Within]]'' (itself loosely based on the original pyramid jets seen in "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]".) This mold has been issued as Thundercracker, Starscream, Skywarp (a convention exclusive) and Sunstorm.

===''Cybertron''===
* '''Voyager''' (2006)

:This mold, based on G1 Starscream's ''[[War Within]]'' appearance, was issued as ''Armada'' Starscream, and later redecorated as Generation 1 Dirge.

* '''Deluxe''' (2006)
: Though Thundercracker wasn't the same mold as Starscream in this series, his deluxe toy was redecoed as Skywarp.

* '''Legends of Cybertron''' (2006)

:A tiny version of the previous mold, issued as ''Armada'' Starscream, and redecorated as ''Universe'' [[Ramjet (Universe)|Ramjet]], ''Armada'' [[Skywarp (Armada)#LOC|Skywarp]] and [[Sunstorm (LOC)|Sunstorm]], and Generation 1 [[Ramjet (G1)#Universe_.282008.29|Ramjet]] and [[Thrust (G1)#Universe_.282008.29|Thrust]]

===''Classics''===
[[Image:Henkei Thundercracker toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|''Henkei! Henkei!'' Thundercracker]]
* '''Deluxe''' (2006)

:An all-new mold at the $10 price point, the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Seeker design retains the F-15 alternate mode, but with a new transformation scheme and modern articulation.

:Like the original, this mold has been redecorated numerous times. In addition to the original six Seekers (some of which were BotCon-exclusive retools), it has also been issued as the character [[Acid Storm]]. The mold was sold in Japan under the ''Henkei! Henkei!'' line.

===''Masterpiece''===
:A larger-scaled, highly complex mold. Issued as Starscream in 2005, with later redecos as Skywarp and Thundercracker.

===Movie (2007)===
* '''Voyager'''

[[Image:Movie Voyager Starscream toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|''2007 Live Action Movie'' Starscream]]
:The mold used for the the [[Transformers (2007)|''Transformers'' live-action movie]] [[Voyager]] class [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] figure was remolded and repainted into [[Thundercracker (Movie)|Thundercracker]] (as well as a G1 recolor of Starscream.) For the ''[[Revenge of the Fallen]]'' line of toys, the mold will be recolored again as [[Skywarp (ROTF)|Skywarp]] and [[Ramjet (Movie)|Ramjet]] respectively.

* '''Fast Action Battler'''

:The [[Fast Action Battler]] version of Starscream was recolored into Ramjet in 2007.
{{-}}

===''Animated''===
* '''Voyager'''

[[Image:Animated Skywarp Voyager.jpg|right|200px|thumb|''Animated'' Skywarp]]
:The [[Voyager]] class [[Starscream (Animated)|Starscream]] from [[Transformers Animated|Animated]] has been recolored into two of his [[Starscream clone|clones]] already, [[Skywarp (Animated)|Skywarp]] and [[Sunstorm (Animated)|Sunstorm]] with a release of [[Thundercracker (Animated)|Thundercracker]] on the way.

* '''Activator'''

: Starscream's [[Activator]] mold, a smaller, auto-transforming design based on the larger toy, was recolored into [[Thundercracker (Animated)|Thundercracker]] and [[Dirge (Animated)|Dirge]], also based on the clones from the cartoon.

==Merchandise==
[[Image:HoC 3H Seeker Set.jpg|right|250px|thumb|[[Starscream (G1)|I]] am [[Thundercracker (G1)|he]] as [[Skywarp (G1)|you]] are he as you are me and [[Air Warrior|we]] are all together.]]
===''Super Collection Figure''===
:A small, PVC plastic figure based on the Seekers' animation model design. It was imported from Takara in the 2002 ''Heroes of Cybertron'' line.

:It was issued as Starscream, Thundercracker, Skywarp, Sunstorm, and as a three-pack of generic light purple [[Air Warrior|Air Warriors]]. It was retooled and redecorated as Dirge and Ramjet.

===Titanium Series===
[[Image:TitaniumRM Starscream.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Stop, in the name of love...]]

: A small, non-transforming die-cast metal figurine, based upon the Generation 1 cartoon appearance of the Seekers was available decoed as either Starscream or Thundercracker.
{{-}}

===''Myclone''===
[[Image:MyCloneRamjet.jpg|right|100px|thumb|''Myclone'' Ramjet]]
:A super-adorable figurine mold of Starscream was issued for this line, and redecorated as the [[Chase figure|chase figure]] Thundercracker. A Coneheads mold was also available, issued as Ramjet and chase figure Dirge, and retooled as Thrust.
{{-}}

===''Robot Heroes''===
:Another super-adorable figurine of Starscream, this time launching himself into the air. Redecorated as Skywarp and Thundercracker. A Thrust mold from the same line has yet to be redecorated.
{{-}}

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Decepticon subgroups]]
[[Category:Fandom]]
[[Category:Generation 1]]
[[Category:Seekers| Seeker (body-type)]]
[[Category:Mass-produced Transformers]]

Blaster Blues

2009-07-08T23:30:53Z

TheGreatMrChibi:

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=39
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=50
|image=BlasterBlues Megatron threatens Blaster.jpg
|caption= "Mrs. Robinson, you're trying to seduce me, aren't you?"
|title="Blaster Blues"
|production code=#700-38
|airdate=[[October 23]], 1985
|written by=[[Larry Strauss]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''The Decepticons hijack Earth's airwaves. Yet somehow, you are still able to watch this episode.'''

:''Japanese title:'' ブロードキャスト・ブルース (''Broadcast Blues'')

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Blasterbluesconcertcrowd.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Did Spike and Carly take an Autobot on all of their dates?]]

[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Carly Witwicky (G1)|Carly]] are at a rock concert, having taken [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] along for the music. Enjoying the concert, Spike wishes that the rest of the [[Autobot]]s could hear the music, so Blaster begins transmitting to all of them. Off in space, [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] gets a real kick out of the music.

At the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]], [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]] are observing [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]'s target practice on [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]], when Blaster's music from the concert begins playing on their channel. Sparkplug and most of the Autobots are not enjoying the overwhelming volume, but [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] gets the chance to show off his dancing skills.

At the [[Helix Observatory]], a human scientist introduces his new creation, the [[Voltronic Galaxer]], to his fellow scientists. The device is intended to translate Earth's recordings into other languages and broadcast them into space, in search of intelligent life. Seemingly, the Transformers don't count. During his first test of the device, the scientist is quite surprised when he gets a response...which turns to horror when he sees it's the Decepticons. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], as he is oft wont to do, begins firing randomly, but [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] orders him to stop, saying that they need the voltronic galaxer.

[[Image:Blasterbluesonthemoon.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Kremzeek!]]

At the Autobot base, Optimus Prime is so annoyed by the music that he outright tells Blaster to "shut up", but to no avail. Only a distress call from the scientist finally gets Blaster to stop. After the Autobots arrive at the observatory, they find that the Decepticons have already fled with their prize. Optimus Prime vows to find it and bring the voltronic galaxer back.

Splitting up into groups, the Autobots begin the search. [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]], Spike and Carly have already searched half the hemisphere, while Cosmos and Blaster are searching outer space. They locate the Decepticons on the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]], where Megatron is plotting to take control of Earth's radio airwaves. Blaster and Cosmos are caught, however, before they can contact the Autobots. Blaster is forced into use as a transcrambler, while Cosmos powers the device. Megatron orders the [[Seeker|Seekers]] to return to Earth as the radio blackout commences.

[[Image:Blasterbluesprimedirectstraffic.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Prime's day job]]

On Earth, the communications blackout is scrambling even the Autobots' radio channels. [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] barely manage to stop a forest fire, while [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], and [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] free motorists trapped on a frozen highway, where [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] attack.

At an airport, Powerglide is attempting to land, when Starscream and [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] attack, damaging both Powerglide and Optimus Prime. Spike manages to strap a jet pack onto Powerglide, giving him some extra boost. As Megatron begins broadcasting his demands to Earth, Blaster plays music from the concert on the same channel. Carly recognizes the tunes and manages to track the transmission back to the Moon. They head for the Autobot base. Carly does some quick repairs on Optimus then the two teens and Powerglide load Prime onto Omega, who takes them to space.

[[Image:Blasterbluespgcarriesprime.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I'm not paid enough to carry this around.]]

Once Omega lands on the Moon, Megatron and Astrotrain attack him. Omega manages to get his hand on Megatron, but Astrotrain rams Omega in train mode, causing him to release Megatron. Astrotrain then flees and Omega transforms into rocket mode and follows. Seeing Optimus Prime defenseless, Megatron decides to hit him while he's down, only for the [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]] to reactivate just in time to defend himself.

[[Image:Blasterbluesop%26mdance.jpg|left|200px|thumb|One shall stand and one shall... oh, you know the drill.]]

With no one to guard them, Blaster and Cosmos cause the voltronic galaxer to receive feedback and explode. Seeing his latest technology ruined, Megatron retreats. After freeing them, Blaster mentions that he could rebuild the Decepticon moon base into a new Autobot base. Cosmos likes the idea, as it would give him some company. Optimus agrees, but orders him to keep an eye on his volume.

Soon, however, Blaster is back to transmitting loud rock music over the air waves again. Some stereos never learn.

{{--}}
==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (3)
*[[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] (4)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (5)
*[[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] (6)
*[[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (8)
*[[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] (9)
*[[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (14)
*[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (15)
*[[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (16)
*[[Hound (G1)|Hound]] (17)
*[[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (18)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] (19)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (20)
*[[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (21)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (22)
*[[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] (24)
*[[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] (25)
*[[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] (26)
*[[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] (30)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] (31)
*[[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (33)

|c2=
*[[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (11)
*[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (12)
*[[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (13)
*[[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (23)
*[[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] (35)
*[[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (36)

|c3=
*[[Carly Witwicky (G1)|Carly]] (1)
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (2)
*[[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (7)
*[[Professor Haley]] (10)
*Air Traffic Controllers (27)
*Pilot (28)
*Railroad workers (29)
*Meteorologist (31)
*Motorists (34)
}}

==Quotes==
'''Optimus''': My audio receptors! What is that noise?! 
'''Hoist''': Humans call it music. 
'''Sparkplug''': Not ''this'' human! 
'''Jazz''': Sounds all right to me.
:—Sparkplug and the Autobots share their opinions on Blaster's choice in music.

"The Earth is but a speck on the arm of the universe."
:—'''Human scientist''' bolstering his race's importance in the cosmos.

"Blaster! Decrease volume! ... Blaster! '''SHUT UP!'''"
:—'''Optimus Prime''' in another fine example of subordinate management.

'''Ironhide''': Where did that call originate? 
'''Optimus''': I don't know! All I can hear is that '''BLASTED BLASTER'''!
:—[[Peter Cullen]]'s annoyance at Blaster's loud music.

"Hey, talk about no place. I can't even get a bottom 40 station out here."
:—'''Blaster''' doesn't enjoy outer space duty inside Cosmos.

"It's Blaster!" 
"Why that son of an 8-track."
:—'''Ratchet''' and '''Trailbreaker'''

"Release Autobots, Megatron!" 
"Never!" 
"Reeeelease them!"
:—'''Omega Supreme''' adds some "hands on" pressure to dealing with '''Megatron'''

"Looks like the big boy needs a little training!"
:—'''Astrotrain''', proving the pun is indeed mightier than the sword. Unfortunately, it's not as mighty as Omega Supreme.

"Parting is such sweet sorrow."
:—'''Megatron''', preparing to kill a defenseless Optimus Prime with a Shakespeare quote.

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
* When Spike cheers on Omega Supreme, both his lips ''and'' Carly's are moving.
* When Astrotrain rams Omega Supreme's leg, Omega holds still for two seconds, then drops Megatron.

===Continuity errors===
* In the [[Kid Rhino]] DVD version, at the end of the episode, Prime yells at Blaster at the end for his loud music but the music sound effect is missing, so Prime yells at Blaster for no apparent reason.

===Transformers references===
[[Image:Blasterbluestrailerchase.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Last one out of the parking lot gets stuck with the check.]]
* During the scene at the observatory, Optimus transforms and drives away, and there is an extended moment where his trailer drives off after him to catch up.
* The joy of size changing: Blaster rides inside Cosmos to the moon, and in the next scene Cosmos and Blaster are side by side and Blaster is almost twice as tall as Cosmos.

===Trivia===
* Jazz has righteous moves, but they are limited by his bulky body.
* Omega Supreme actually uses whole sentences in this episode. That's just crazy.
* The depicted activities of any Transformer on the Moon do not bear any resemblance to the movements of creatures under gravity one-sixth that of Earth's own.
* Not relevant to the episode but interesting to consider is the absence of the world wide web, compared to the loss of radio. In modern times, the human race would be about as dependent on the internet, if not more so.

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/blaster_blues.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]